Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this cake delivers unmatched flavor and gooey goodness. The delightful combination of pecans and creamy butter creates a treat that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of buttery goodness with crunchy pecans makes every bite a delight.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is beginner-friendly.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for parties, holidays, or as an everyday treat, it fits any occasion beautifully.
- Gooey Texture: The cake’s gooey center offers a delightful contrast to its golden crust.
- Customizable Options: Add bourbon for an adult twist or serve with ice cream for an extra special touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather the essential tools needed to make this delicious dessert. Having everything prepared will ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your batter is perfectly blended for that gooey texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors in your cake.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (28 g)
- 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans (140 g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 g)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (226 g)
- 1 whole egg, softened
- 1 egg yolk, softened
- 2 1/2 cups icing sugar (325 g)
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (141 g)
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Gooey Topping
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
- Browned butter from earlier step
- 1 whole egg, softened
- 1 egg yolk, softened
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon optional bourbon
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, softened (120 ml)
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 5 tablespoons salted butter, softened (70 g)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, softened (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and help achieve a perfect crust.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients for the Cake Base
In a mixing bowl:
Beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
Add in the granulated sugar and continue mixing until well combined.
Incorporate the whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla essence, and buttermilk until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, icing sugar, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture while mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no dry bits left.
Step 6: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a rubber spatula. This adds crunchiness to your cake.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow it to cool in the pan before slicing. Enjoy your delicious gooey butter pecan cake warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Serving Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can elevate any gathering or sweet moment. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Classic with Whipped Cream
- Top each slice of the cake with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a rich layer of caramel sauce over the cake for an extra sweet touch that complements the pecans beautifully.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a heavenly dessert combination.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
Coffee Companion
- Enjoy your cake with a cup of coffee or espresso, enhancing the flavors and making it an ideal afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
To ensure your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing butter, eggs, and cream cheese to reach room temperature helps them mix better, resulting in a smoother batter.
Toast the pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their flavor and adds a wonderful crunch to the cake.
Avoid over-mixing: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Over-mixing can create a denser texture.
Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs when done baking.
Best Side Dishes for Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options:
Crispy Bacon: The saltiness of crispy bacon contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the rich dessert.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie and sharp cheddar, provides savory bites that complement the sweet flavors.
Chocolate Fondue: For chocolate lovers, dipping fruits or marshmallows in warm chocolate fondue makes for an indulgent treat alongside your cake.
Fruit Tart: The tartness from seasonal fruits in a pastry shell pairs wonderfully with the gooey texture of your cake.
Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish’s sweetness and creamy texture work well together, creating harmony on your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, a few common pitfalls can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients like butter and cream cheese can result in a lumpy batter. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined to keep it fluffy and light.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so be precise with measurements. Use a kitchen scale for best results.
- Skipping the cooling time: Letting the cake cool completely before slicing helps maintain its structure and makes serving easier.
- Underestimating baking time: Each oven varies. Check your cake towards the end of the baking time to avoid over or under-baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration helps maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds at a time.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common queries about the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, ensuring you have all the information needed.
How can I make my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, which pair beautifully with pecans and enhance the flavor profile.
Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?
Yes! You can use walnuts or almonds if you prefer different nuts, but keep in mind that they will change the taste slightly.
What is the best way to serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Final Thoughts
The Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite flavors or toppings. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just as a comforting dessert at home, this cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it!
Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake—a dessert that embodies warmth and sweetness. This delightful cake features a gooey center surrounded by a golden crust, enhanced by the crunchiness of pecans and the creaminess of butter. Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings, this cake is not only easy to make but also customizable with options like adding bourbon or serving with ice cream. Impress your family and friends with this southern classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 whole egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 1/2 cups icing sugar
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon optional bourbon
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Mix in granulated sugar, then add whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla essence, and buttermilk until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, icing sugar, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients until just combined; fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
